Vertical Training Tulsa: How to Measure Your Jump Progress

by | Jun 30, 2025 | Vertical Jump Training | 0 comments

Are You Actually Jumping Higher?

You’re training hard, lifting smart, and doing your plyos. But are you getting results? Vertical training in Tulsa means more than just working hard — it means tracking your jump progress.

This article will show you how to measure your vertical gains, which tools are most accurate, and how to use tracking to fuel even more progress.

Why Measuring Your Vertical Matters

Progress tracking is a huge motivator. When Tulsa athletes measure their vertical jumps, they can:

  • Set clear goals

  • Adjust training based on results

  • Celebrate gains that might not feel obvious

  • Spot plateaus before progress stops

You wouldn’t lift without knowing your numbers — so why jump blind?

Top Tools for Measuring Vertical Training in Tulsa

Tulsa gyms use several methods to track vertical jump performance. Here are the most popular and effective:

1. Vertec Jump Device

A classic tool with plastic vanes you swipe as you jump. Measures jump height by difference from standing reach.

  • Pros: Simple, accurate, no batteries

  • Cons: Requires tall ceilings and consistent setup

2. Jump Mat

Electronic pad that measures flight time to estimate jump height.

  • Pros: Fast and consistent

  • Cons: Can overestimate slightly if form is poor

3. Video + Measurement

Using a camera and wall marker, record your jump, pause the video at peak height, and compare it to your reach.

  • Pros: Low-cost and visual

  • Cons: Slightly less accurate

4. Smartphone Apps

Apps like My Jump 2 are designed to measure jump height using slow-motion video analysis.

  • Pros: Affordable and accessible

  • Cons: Accuracy depends on video quality

Most Tulsa vertical training programs use a mix of these tools, depending on athlete age and training level.

How to Perform an Accurate Vertical Jump Test

To get the best results, consistency is key. Follow these steps to track your jump accurately:

  1. Warm Up First
    Jump performance suffers if you’re cold. Always do dynamic warmups first.

  2. Use the Same Surface
    A hardwood floor will yield different results than turf or grass.

  3. Measure Standing Reach First
    This sets your baseline for all future jump comparisons.

  4. Do 2–3 Max Jumps
    Rest for 60 seconds between each. Use your highest jump for tracking.

  5. Log Your Results
    Track date, height, surface, fatigue level, and notes. Consistency reveals patterns.

For more details, check out this vertical jump testing guide from Verywell Fit.

How Often Should You Test Vertical Jump?

In most Tulsa vertical training programs, athletes test every 4–6 weeks. This allows enough time for meaningful improvements, but not so long that plateaus go unnoticed.

Too frequent testing can mess with training flow. Too infrequent, and you might miss key changes.

A monthly jump test fits well into a regular strength and plyometric schedule.

Signs That Your Vertical Is Improving

Jump height isn’t the only sign of progress. You might also notice:

  • More hang time during games

  • Better rebounding or blocking

  • Stronger take-off and landing control

  • More explosive first steps

  • Easier performance in strength-based lifts

Athletes at Next Level Athletics Tulsa often track not just jump height, but sprint times and power outputs too.

These data points help coaches fine-tune programs for better vertical gains.

What to Do If You Hit a Plateau

Plateaus happen. Here’s how Tulsa athletes push through:

  • Change Your Training Focus
    Add new plyometrics, lifts, or rest days.

  • Check Recovery
    Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and overtraining kill progress.

  • Reassess Form
    Technique matters more than brute force.

  • Try Contrast Training
    Pairing heavy lifts with jumps can break through performance walls.

Tracking your vertical helps you identify what’s working — and what’s not.

Vertical Progress Benchmarks to Aim For

Every athlete starts at a different level, but here are general guidelines for progress:

Athlete Level Avg Vertical Gain in 8 Weeks
Beginner 3–5 inches
Intermediate 2–3 inches
Advanced 1–2 inches

Keep in mind that even 1 inch of vertical gain can mean a big performance shift in-game.

Conclusion: Track It to Improve It – Vertical Training Tulsa

If you’re serious about vertical gains, tracking is non-negotiable. Measuring your vertical shows what’s working and helps you stay motivated.

Tulsa athletes who track progress see better results — because they train smarter. Whether you are testing with a Vertec, jump mat, or an app, the goal is the same: jump higher and perform better.

Start measuring your progress today. And if you need help, expert coaches at Next Level Athletics Tulsa are ready to guide you.

Vertical Training Tulsa